Linwei Li

Linwei Li

Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia, Reimagining India Study Tour

Introduction

Kia Ora, my name is Lily, and I’m a fifth-year Health Science and Law student at the University of Auckland. I’m from Christchurch and am a proud Cantabrian!

The World Health Organisation recognises health as a ‘state of complete physical, mental and social well-being’. Studying health science means it’s especially relevant and important to recognise the importance of culture in relation to our health. Therefore, a primary reason I applied for the programme was that it’s a unique and amazing opportunity to explore the numerous different cultures and perspectives to which India is home and which is also a part of New Zealand!

I’m super excited to share the group’s and my journey in India, especially the food, the diverse local histories, and the different cultures within India. However, I’m also just as excited to explore the similarities that we Kiwis may share with the people of India. 

Hopefully, from this trip, I’ll be able to gain greater awareness and appreciation of the Indian culture, but also of the importance of diversity and how diversity empowers and enriches our communities. I hope to bring this appreciation and knowledge to whatever career I may choose, whether in the legal or health sector.

  • Goodbye India. Thank you for all the memories.

    Well here it is. The last blog post for the trip. What a fantastic 6 weeks it has been. The journey has definitely not been easy, but I feel I’m all the better for it. Some of the most basic things that I have learnt include; Some of my highlights from this trip has been;…Continue…

  • Week 3 and 4. Highs and Lows.

    Hello!!! I wish I could be more upbeat, but if I’m being honest, the trip has had some highs and lows. Although I’m very, very grateful to be on this trip, I sometimes do wish I was in New Zealand. I’m definitely starting to feel homesick, but I’m also having an amazing time. I thought…Continue…

  • A Ponder on Pondicherry and Lessons for New Zealand 

    Namaste! Vaṇakkam! Hello! It’s been a few days into the trip. Here are a few interesting things I’ve found so far as a health sci student, which I think might be interesting and potentially be some cool initiatives for New Zealand to consider! One of my favourite moments was going to the Aurobindo Ashram. An…Continue…